diff --git a/examples/hx8357_simpletest.py b/examples/hx8357_simpletest.py
index 2e28919..4bd603f 100644
--- a/examples/hx8357_simpletest.py
+++ b/examples/hx8357_simpletest.py
@@ -9,11 +9,13 @@
 from adafruit_display_text import label
 from adafruit_hx8357 import HX8357
 
+# Release any resources currently in use for the displays
+displayio.release_displays()
+
 spi = board.SPI()
 tft_cs = board.D9
 tft_dc = board.D10
 
-displayio.release_displays()
 display_bus = displayio.FourWire(spi, command=tft_dc, chip_select=tft_cs)
 
 display = HX8357(display_bus, width=480, height=320)